Thorn Tree Planet
Title: Thorn Tree Planet
Year: Unknown
Description: Spiny ant generally build their nests among the leaves and twigs of small trees and shrubs. These nests are made by final instar larvae which join the leaves and twigs with larval silk. The shape of the nest is nearly round to oval.
Insect: Spiny ant Polyrhachis dives Smith, 1857
Order Hymenoptera
Family Formicidae
Subfamily Formicinae
Tribe Camponitini
Introduction: The spiny ant has pairs of spine-like protrusions on the anterior, central, and posterior thorax, for which it is named. It is the most common ant species in low- to mid-elevation areas of Taiwan. It is territorial and sometimes actively attacks humans or animals. It is also sometimes symbiotic with aphids or scale insects. It prefers to nest in open environments, such as grassland or woodland, open forests, or near homes.
Photographed by: Zhang Jia-Hao; Let’s Explore Insects in the Home Team
